Tesla’s latest Model Y update has sparked curiosity among car enthusiasts, but details about any major tire supplier changes remain unclear. While rumors have circulated about Tesla potentially switching from Michelin to another tire manufacturer for the refreshed Model Y, there’s no confirmed information available about such a change.
The Model Y currently comes with various tire options depending on the trim level and wheel size. Tesla has traditionally worked with multiple tire suppliers, including Michelin, Continental, Pirelli, and Hankook. Each manufacturer provides tires that meet Tesla’s specific requirements for efficiency, performance, and noise reduction.
Tesla sources tires from multiple manufacturers including Michelin, Continental, Pirelli, and Hankook to meet specific efficiency and performance requirements.
The electric vehicle maker hasn’t made any official announcements about dropping Michelin or any other tire supplier from its lineup.
Tire selection plays an essential role in electric vehicles. EVs are heavier than gas-powered cars due to their battery packs, which means they need tires that can handle the extra weight. They also require tires with low rolling resistance to maximize driving range. Tesla’s engineering team carefully selects tires that balance these needs with comfort and handling performance. Tesla owners often experience faster tire degradation due to the vehicle’s instant torque delivery and heavy battery weight applying additional pressure on tires.
The Model Y facelift, known internally as “Juniper,” is expected to bring various updates to Tesla’s popular SUV. These changes might include exterior design tweaks, interior improvements, and possibly new technology features. However, specific details about component suppliers, including tire manufacturers, haven’t been released by the company.
Tesla owners who need replacement tires have multiple aftermarket options available. Many drivers choose to stick with the original equipment manufacturer tires that came with their vehicles. Others opt for different brands based on their driving needs, weather conditions, or budget constraints. Popular replacement choices include all-season, winter, and performance tires from various manufacturers. Retailers like Discount Tire offer financing options to help Tesla owners manage the cost of premium replacement tires that meet their vehicle’s specific requirements. Pirelli offers an extensive catalog with seasonal tire categories including summer, winter, all-season, and all-weather options specifically designed for the Model Y.
The automotive industry closely watches Tesla’s supplier relationships since they can indicate broader trends in electric vehicle manufacturing. Any significant change in tire partnerships would likely impact pricing, availability, and performance characteristics of future Model Y vehicles. Until Tesla makes an official announcement, any reports about ditching Michelin or switching to a different tire supplier remain unconfirmed speculation.